Hillcrest High remembers Cameron Prince at graduation

Hillcrest High School’s graduation night was celebratory but solemn as students and faculty remembered one of their own who died last year.

Cameron Prince died at the age of 16 from complications following a routine heart surgery. Hillcrest Senior Class President Mary Randall Smalley reflected on her late classmate during her graduation speech.

“When I think of my best high school memories, he seems to be in all of them. Cameron was a friend to all and impacted every single person he came in contact with,” said Smalley.

Cameron’s parents, who attended graduation, said it was a bittersweet moment but one they wanted to be a part of.

“We wanted to come out and celebrate, our hearts are heavy but at the same time we are excited because we know that our angel has the best seat. He’s watching everybody and cheering everybody on and saying ‘Go Pats,’ ” said Cameron’s mother Tammy Prince.

Cameron’s parents are ensuring his legacy lives on with a scholarship in his name. The Cameron Prince Legacy Foundation Scholarship awarded a trio of classmates a scholarship at Friday’s graduation.

Cameron was remembered as a stellar student, class leader and the school photographer. His classmates walked across the stage and looked back on all the great times they shared together.

“I really loved when he was around because he always made people smile, always gave joy to the school. When he left us he did leave his mark. He was such a good person. We really love him and miss him, said Hilcrest Graduate Jalea Frierson.